EP2449656B1 - Electrical component structure - Google Patents
Electrical component structure Download PDFInfo
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- EP2449656B1 EP2449656B1 EP10793686.6A EP10793686A EP2449656B1 EP 2449656 B1 EP2449656 B1 EP 2449656B1 EP 10793686 A EP10793686 A EP 10793686A EP 2449656 B1 EP2449656 B1 EP 2449656B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- metal terminals
- magnetic flux
- electrical component
- component structure
- magnetic
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
- H02K5/00—Casings; Enclosures; Supports
- H02K5/04—Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof
- H02K5/22—Auxiliary parts of casings not covered by groups H02K5/06-H02K5/20, e.g. shaped to form connection boxes or terminal boxes
- H02K5/225—Terminal boxes or connection arrangements
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
- H02K9/00—Arrangements for cooling or ventilating
- H02K9/26—Structural association of machines with devices for cleaning or drying cooling medium, e.g. with filters
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to an electrical component structure. More specifically, the present invention relates to an electrical component structure having an excellent insulating performance.
- US 4 966 559 A discloses a hermetic terminal block for a compressor, the terminal assembly comprises a metallic, cup-shaped body member having an annular frustoconical flange with tend to collect foreign particles.
- EP 1 920 992 A1 discloses an electromotor with terminals comprising the features of the preamble of claim 1.
- one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an electrical component structure that can prevent a short circuit caused by metal particles from occurring between terminals of an electrical component and improve an insulating capacity of the electrical component.
- an electrical component mainly comprises at least two electrical conductive parts, an insulator and a magnetic flux generating structure.
- the electrical conductive parts are arranged with an electric line of force existing between adjacent ones of the conductive parts.
- the insulator holds the conductive parts.
- the magnetic flux generating structure generates a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines oriented in a direction different from a direction of the electric line of force existing between the adjacent ones of the conductive parts.
- the motor 1 is one example of an electrical device with an electrical component structure in accordance with illustrated embodiments, discussed below.
- the motor 1 mainly includes a generally cylindrical motor case 2, a rotor member 3 and a stator member 4.
- the rotor member 3 and the stator member 4 are enclosed inside the motor case 2.
- the motor 1 has windings 5 that are wound onto the stator member 4 for providing three phases (phases U, V, and W).
- the windings 5 extend from the stator member 4 to a connection section 6.
- the motor case 2 includes a protruding portion 2a for accommodating the connection section 6.
- a terminal block 7 is arranged inside a protruding portion 2a of the motor case 2.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator of the connection section 6.
- the windings 5 are connected to separate metal terminals 8 (exemplifying conductive parts) that are provided on the terminal block 7.
- the connection section 6 of Figure 2 generically represents the connection sections ( Figures 3 to 11 ) that utilizes at least one magnetic flux generating structure ( Figures 3 to 11 ) to prevent a short circuit from occurring between the metal terminals 8and to improve the insulating performance of the terminal block 7 between the metal terminals 8.
- the metal terminals 8 are arranged on the terminal block 7 such that the long sides of the metal terminals 8 are substantially parallel to one another.
- the metal terminals 8 are further arranged on the terminal block 7 such that the metal terminals 8 are separated by equal intervals or substantially equal intervals.
- Each of the metal terminals 8 is fastened in place with a pair of fastening members 10.
- a rotary shaft 9 is provided in a radially center portion of the rotor member 3 of the motor 1.
- the rotary shaft 9 is rotatably supported on bearings (not shown) that are disposed between the motor case 2 and the rotary shaft 9.
- the bearings enable the rotor member 3 to rotate smoothly together with the rotary shaft 9 by reducing rotary friction. It is known that, during rotation, the metal of the bearings wears and metal particles are produced. These metal particles can adhere to a surface of the terminal block 7.
- the metal particles produced from the wear of the bearings intend to adhere to a surface of the terminal block 7 such that they become arranged in a linear form corresponding to an electric line of force 11 existing between adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8 within an electric field existing between the metal terminals 8. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the electric line of force 11 runs from one terminal 8 to the other terminal 8. The electric line of force 11 is shown by the arrows extending between the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8. The arrows shown in parentheses indicate a current flow direction of the electric lines of force 11 that would occur if the electric current flow is in the opposite direction. In any event, the metal particles produced from the wear of the bearings become aligned so as to be parallel to the electric line of force 11 existing between the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8 within an electric field existing between the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic flux generating structure is provided, as explained in detail in Figures 3 to 11 , such that a magnetic flux is generated with magnetic field or flux lines 12 that are oriented in a direction different from a direction of the electric line of force 11 existing between the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic flux lines 12 are provided between the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8, with the magnetic flux lines 12 being represented by unfilled arrows.
- the magnetic flux lines 12 are oriented so as to intersect with the electric lines of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8. The magnetic field of the magnetic flux serves to cancel out the electric lines of force 11.
- metal particles existing between the metal terminals 8 are obstructed from becoming aligned with the electric lines of force 11.
- the metal particles are obstructed from forming a path joining adjacent metal terminals 8 and short circuits do not readily occur between the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic forces of the magnetic flux lines 12 act on the metal particles between the metal terminals 8 in a direction different from, i.e., approximately perpendicular to, a direction in which the electric lines of force 11 are oriented.
- the magnetic forces impede the ability of the metal particles to align with the electric lines of force 11 between the metal terminals 8.
- a short circuit is prevented from occurring between the metal terminals 8 and the insulating performance of the terminal block 7 between the metal terminals 8 can be improved.
- the expression "in a direction different from a direction in which the electric lines of force 11 are oriented” means that the magnetic forces of the magnetic flux lines 12 can exert a sufficient effect against the metal particles even if they are not oriented exactly perpendicularly with respect to the direction of the lines of force 11. A sufficient effect can be obtained so long as the direction of the magnetic flux lines 12 is approximately perpendicular or intersects at a prescribed angle (e.g., 80 degrees).
- the phrase "approximately perpendicular” refers to an angle (e.g., 80 degrees) that is sufficient to cancel the electric lines of force 11 between the adjacent ones the metal terminals 8 to prevent a short circuit from occurring due to metal particles aligning to form a connection between adjacent ones the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic force does not need to be perfectly perpendicular the electric line of force 11.
- FIG 3 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 16 that represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with a first embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the connection section 6 will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 16.
- the connection section 16 includes the terminal block 7 and the metal terminals 8 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 8 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- a magnetized insulating member 13 is located between adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetized insulating member 13 constitutes of an example a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment.
- the magnetized insulating member 13 can be disposed either in a recess formed in the terminal block 7, or one of the surfaces of the terminal block 7.
- the insulating material of the terminal block 7 can be mold around part of magnetized insulating member 13 or completely around the magnetized insulating member 13 as need and/or desired.
- the insulating member 13 of the first embodiment is configured to have a rectangular shape.
- the metal terminals 8 have rectangular shapes with a length dimension L1.
- a length dimension L2 of the insulating member 13 is longer than the length dimension L1 of the metal terminals 8.
- the insulating member 13 is arranged to be parallel to the metal terminals 8.
- the insulating member 13 is pre-magnetized to generate a magnetic flux 12 between the metal terminals 8 as indicated by the unfilled arrow in Figure 3 .
- the magnetic flux lines 12 are oriented to intersect with an electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8.
- the connection section 16 is constructed such that the magnetic flux lines 12 are generated between the metal terminals 8 with the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented to intersect with the electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8.
- the metal terminals 8 are typically high power conductive parts and metal particles can end up on a surface between the metal terminals 8 by simply landing there or being carried there by a lubricating oil. Once there, the metal particles are drawn toward a static electric force of an electric field generated by the electric line of force 11. Thus, there is a possibility that the metal particles will move and become arranged along a path corresponding to the electric line of force 11.
- the static electric force of the electric field causes metal particles gather to such a degree that a continuous path of metal particles capable of conducting a current is formed between the metal terminals 8 or to such a degree that the particles are close enough together for electrical discharging to occur when a discharge threshold voltage is exceeded, then a short circuit could occur between the metal terminals 8.
- the metal particles are prevented from becoming arranged in accordance with the electric field by generating a magnetic flux that intersects the electric line of force between the terminals.
- an external force is exerted against the metal particles in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electric line of force 11, thereby preventing the metal particles from aligning with the electric line of force 11.
- the magnetized insulating member 13 generates a magnetic flux with the magnetic flux lines 12 oriented in a direction intersecting with the electric line of force 11, as indicated with the unfilled arrow in Figure 3 .
- the magnetic flux produces a magnetic force serving as the aforementioned external force.
- Metal particles that adhered to a surface of the terminal block 7 between the metal terminals 8 due to simply landing there or being carried there by a lubricating oil are subjected not only to a force oriented in the direction of the electric line of force 11, but also to a magnetic force that is caused by the magnetic flux with the magnetic flux lines 12 oriented in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electric line of force 11. Consequently, in the motor 1 according to the first embodiment, the metal particles do not become arranged in a linear form substantially parallel to the electric line of force 11 spanning between the metal terminals 8.
- the metal particles are obstructed from aligning with the electric line of force 11 by the magnetic flux (the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented which are oriented in a direction intersecting with the electric line of force 11) and a short circuit is prevented from occurring between the metal terminals 8.
- the insulating performance can be improved between the metal terminals 8 and the operational reliability of the motor 1 can be increased.
- the insulating member 13 is embedded between the metal terminals 8 and configured such that the length dimension L2 of the insulating member 13 is longer than the length dimension L1 of the metal terminals 8 and both longitudinal end portions 13a of the insulating member 13 protrude beyond both longitudinal ends of the metal terminals 8 in a lengthwise direction. Consequently, the magnetic flux lines 12 exerts a magnetic force on metal particles adhered to a surface of the terminal block 7 can be reliably generated without changing an insulating material serving as a main substance from which the terminal block 7 is made. Thus, the manufacturing cost can be reduced in comparison with a design that requires changing all of the insulating material serving as the main substance from which the terminal block 7 is made.
- FIG 4 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 26 in accordance with a second embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 26 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 26 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1.
- Figure 2 will be used to explain details of the electrical component structure in accordance with the second embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 26.
- connection section 26 includes a terminal block 17 and the metal terminals 8 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 17 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 8 are fastened to the terminal block 17 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 17 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- a magnetic body 21 is formed in the terminal block 17 between adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic body 21 is formed of a plurality of magnetic particles that are mixed into the insulating material of the terminal block 17 in advance when forming (e.g., molding) the terminal block 17.
- the magnetic particles forming the magnetic body 21 are disposed within the insulating material of the terminal block 17 at areas of between adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8 during the forming process of the terminal block 17.
- the magnetic body 21 constitutes an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment.
- the magnetic body 21 generates a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines 12 oriented in a lengthwise direction of the metal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow in Figure 4 .
- the connection section 26 is constructed such that the magnetic flux is generated between the metal terminals 8 with the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented to perpendicularly intersect with the electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8.
- the second embodiment achieves the same operational effects as the previously explained embodiment and the first embodiment. Additionally, in the second embodiment, residual metal particles existing between the metal terminals 8 are dispersed by the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electric line of force 11 that exists between the metal terminals 8 (the magnetic flux lines 12 are indicated with an unfilled arrow and the electric line of force 11 is indicated with small arrows in Figure 4 ). As a result, the metal particles are not pulled into alignment by an electric field generated by the electric line of force 11.
- the magnetic body 21 is mixed into the insulating material of the terminal block 17 in advance.
- the magnetic body 21 makes it easy to generate a magnetic flux with the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a lengthwise direction of the metal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow in Figure 4 . Since the magnetic particles of the magnetic body 21 are mix into the insulating material in advance, it is not necessary to provide magnetic bodies separately such that the manufacturing cost can be prevented from increasing due to an increased number of parts.
- the magnetic body 21 also makes it easy to generate a magnetic flux with the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a lengthwise direction of the metal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow in Figure 4 , even if the distance between the metal terminals 8 is small. Thus, the overall size of the terminal block 17 does not need to be increased to add the magnetic body 21 between each of the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8.
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 36 in accordance with a third embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 36 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 36 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- Figure 5 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the third embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 36.
- connection section 36 includes the terminal block 7 and the metal terminals 8 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 8 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- a magnet 31 is embedded in the terminal block 7 between adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8.
- the magnet 31 constitutes an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment.
- the magnet 31 is configured to have a rectangular shape substantially the same as the shape of the metal terminals 8.
- a length dimension L3 of the magnet 31 is longer than a length dimension L1 of the metal terminals 8, and the magnet 31 is arranged between the metal terminals 8 so as to be parallel to the metal terminals 8.
- the magnet 31 has a lengthwise magnetization direction 32.
- the magnet 31 of the third embodiment serves to generate a magnetic flux 12 with magnetic flux lines 12 between the metal terminals 8 and the magnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a direction intersecting the electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic flux exerts a magnetic force that impedes the tendency of residual metal particles existing between the metal terminals 8 to align with the electric line of force 11.
- the magnet 31 embedded in the insulating material of the terminal block 7 generates a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines 12 that intersect with the electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow in Figure 5 .
- a magnetic force produced by the magnetic flux serves to prevent residual metal particles existing between the metal terminals 8 from aligning with the electric line of force 11, thereby preventing a short circuit from occurring between the metal terminals 8.
- the magnetic flux exerting a magnetic force on metal particles adhering to the terminal block 7 can be reliably generated by merely providing the embedded magnet 31 between the metal terminals 8. In other words, it is not necessary to change an insulating material serving as a main substance from which the terminal block 7 is made. As a result, the manufacturing cost can be reduced in comparison with a design that requires changing the insulating material serving as the main substance from which the terminal block 7 is made.
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 46 in accordance with a fourth embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 46 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 46 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- Figure 6 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the fourth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 46.
- connection section 46 includes the terminal block 7 and the metal terminals 48 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 48 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 48 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 48 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 48 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- the metal terminals 48 are magnetized to create a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines 42 located between the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 48.
- the metal terminals 48 constitute an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment.
- the metal terminals 48 are arranged adjacent to one another such that portions of adjacent metal terminals 48 that face each other have the same magnetic polarity. More specifically, the corresponding portions 48a of adjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., S and S, or N and N), and the corresponding portions 48b of adjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., N and N, or S and S).
- a portion where a density of magnetic flux lines 42 is highest, and the magnetic flux lines 42 are strongest is arranged in a lengthwise middle portion where a density of electric lines of force 11 is also highest. Also the magnetic flux lines 42 are oriented to intersect with the electric lines of force.
- the metal terminals 48 are magnetized such that portions of adjacent metal terminals 48 that face each other have the same magnetic polarity, i.e., such that the corresponding portions 48a of adjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., S and S, or N and N) and the corresponding portions of adjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., N and N, or S and S). Consequently, the magnetic flux lines 42 generated are oriented to intersect an electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 48 at a lengthwise middle portion between the metal terminals 48 where a density of the electric lines of force 11 is highest and a static electric force acting on metal particles is largest. As a result, metal particles existing between the metal terminals 48 are prevented from aligning with the electric line of force 11 at a place where such alignment would otherwise occur most readily and the insulating performance of the connection section 46 can be improved efficiently.
- the magnetic flux lines 42 generated are oriented to intersect an electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 48 at a length
- FIGS 7 and 8 are an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 56 in accordance with a fifth embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 56 represents the terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 56 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- Figures 7 and 8 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the fifth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 56.
- connection section 56 includes the terminal block 7 and the metal terminals 8 that correspond to the three phases (U-phase, V-phase or W-phase).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 8 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- Permanent magnets 57 to 60 are attached to opposing side faces 8b and 8c of the adjacent ones of the metal terminals 8.
- the permanent magnets 57 to 60 are shaped like elongated plates and arranged such that opposing side faces 8b and 8c of adjacent metal terminals 8 have the same magnetic polarity.
- the metal terminals 8 with the permanent magnets 57 to 60 constitute an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment.
- the permanent magnets 57 to 60 serve to magnetize the metal terminals 8 in magnetization directions 61 indicated with arrows in Figure 7 .
- the oppositely oriented arrows shown in parentheses indicate the magnetization directions that would result if the polarities of the permanent magnets 57 to 60 were reversed.
- the electrical component structure according to the fifth embodiment is constructed such that the metal terminals 8 are magnetized by the permanent magnets 57 to 60 such that opposing side faces 8b and 8c of adjacent metal terminals 8 have the same magnetic polarity (i.e., S and S, or N and N).
- the generated magnetic flux lines 52 intersect the electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 8 at a lengthwise middle portion between the metal terminals 8 where a density of electric lines of force 11 is highest and a static electric force acting on metal particles is largest.
- the metal particles between the metal terminals 8 can be prevented from aligning with the electric line of force 11 at a place where a short circuit would otherwise occur most readily.
- opposing side faces 8b and 8c of adjacent metal terminals 8 can be magnetized to have the same magnetic polarity by merely attaching elongated plate-like permanent magnets 57 to 60, the magnetic flux lines 52 can be generated reliably with a simple structure and the manufacturing cost can be suppressed.
- an arrangement efficiency of the permanent magnets 57 to 60 can be improved by arranging the permanent magnets 57 to 60 such that the magnetization directions 61 are the same on both side faces 8b and 8c of a metal terminal 8 that is arranged between two other metal terminals 8.
- a length dimension L4 of the permanent magnets 57 to 60 is longer than the length dimension L1 of the metal terminals 8, and the permanent magnets 57 to 60 are disposed on the terminal block 7 between the metal terminals 8 such that the permanent magnets 57 to 60 are parallel to the metal terminals 8.
- both longitudinal end portions of the permanent magnets 57 to 60 protrude beyond both longitudinal ends 8a of the metal terminals 8 in a lengthwise direction. Consequently, the magnetic forces of the magnetic flux lines 52 can be made to act on metal particles adhered to a surface of the terminal block 7 in a reliable fashion.
- FIG 9 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 66 in accordance with a sixth embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 66 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 66 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- Figure 9 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the sixth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 66.
- connection section 66 includes the terminal block 7 and a plurality of metal terminals 68 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 68 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 68 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 68 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 68 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- the metal terminals 68 are provided with soft magnetic coatings 69 that are formed on substantially the entire surface of the metal terminals 68. Also a permanent magnet 70 is attached to an upper surface portion 68d of each of the metal terminals 68. The upper surface portion 68d is located in a lengthwise middle portion of each of the metal terminals 68. Each of the permanent magnets 70 is arranged such that it magnetizes with a magnetization direction 71 oriented either into or out of the terminal block 7 as indicated with an X mark or a circle in Figure 9 .
- the soft magnetic coatings 69 and the permanent magnets 70 constitute an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment.
- the electrical component structure according to the sixth embodiment includes permanent magnets 70 arranged on the metal terminals 68 such that the resulting magnetization directions 71 are oriented vertically through the metal terminals 68. Since a soft magnetic coating 69 is applied to a surface of each of the metal terminals 68 in advance, the metal terminals 68 become magnetized readily and the generated magnetic flux lines 62 are oriented to intersect an electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 68 at a lengthwise middle portion between the metal terminals 68 where a density of the electric lines of force 11 is highest and a static electric force acting on metal particles is largest. Thus, the metal particles between the metal terminals 68 can be prevented from being drawn into alignment with the electric line of force 11 at a place where a short circuit would otherwise occur most readily.
- the soft magnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surface of the metal terminals 68 serve to reliably magnetize the metal terminals 68 such that opposing side faces 68b and 68c of adjacent metal terminals 68 have the same magnetic polarity.
- magnetic flux lines 62 can be generated in a desired position.
- the permanent magnets 70 can be attached to any portion of the metal terminals 68, e.g., to an upper surface portion 68d located in a lengthwise middle portion of each of the metal terminals 68 as shown in Figure 9 .
- magnetic flux lines 62 serving to prevent the alignment of metal particles can be reliably generated from portions of adjacent metal terminals 68 facing opposite each other, i.e., from the opposing side faces 68b and 68c.
- the electric component structure according to the sixth embodiment can be obtained simply and easily without increasing a distance between the opposing side faces 68b and 68c of the metal terminals 68.
- the size of the electric component structure can be reduced.
- FIG 10 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 76 in accordance with a seventh embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 76 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 76 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- Figure 10 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the seventh embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 76.
- connection section 76 includes the terminal block 7 and a plurality of metal terminals 68 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 68 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members 10.
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 68 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 68 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 68 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- the electrical component structure according to the seventh embodiment is basically the same as the sixth embodiment, except that the permanent magnets 70 are replaced with electromagnets 80 for generating the magnetic flux lines 62.
- Soft magnetic coatings 69 are applied in advance to surfaces of the metal terminals 68 serving as conductive parts of the connection section 76 to magnetize the metal terminals 68.
- the soft magnetic coatings 69 are applied to substantially the entire upper surface of the metal terminals 68 and each of the electromagnets 80 is provided over the soft magnetic coating 69 on an upper surface portion 68d located in a lengthwise middle portion of the respective metal terminal 68.
- Each of the electromagnets 80 comprises a coil 81 wound around an outer peripheral surface of the metal terminal 68.
- the coils 81 can be configured such that when they are energized, the resulting magnetization directions 82 of the metal terminals 68 are oriented in the same lengthwise direction of the metal terminals 68.
- the oppositely oriented arrows shown in parentheses indicate the magnetization directions 82 that would result if the electric current flowed in the opposite direction in the coils 81.
- the coils 81 are electrically connected to the metal terminals 68 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from the metal terminals 68.
- the seventh embodiment is contrived such that when electric power is supplied to the metal terminals 68 of the connection section 76 to drive the motor 1, the coils 81 of the electromagnets 80 are energized because they are electrically connected to the metal terminals 68.
- the metal terminals 68 Due to the soft magnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surfaces of the metal terminals 68, the metal terminals 68 are readily magnetized and magnetic fluxes 83 are generated between the metal terminals 68 in such directions as to obstruct an electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 68.
- the magnetic forces serve to prevent residual metal particles existing between the metal terminals 68 from aligning with the electric line of force 11, thereby preventing a short circuit from occurring and improving the ?power transfer through the metal terminals 68 to the motor 1.
- the metal terminals 68 are magnetized by the electromagnets 80.
- the coils 81 of the electromagnets 80 are electrically connected to the metal terminals 68 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from the metal terminals 68. Consequently, it is not necessary to provide a separate electric power source to supply electric power to the coils 81 and the coils 81 need only be wound onto an outer surface of the metal terminals 68 such that an electrical connection is established.
- the seventh embodiment has a simple structure and can suppress manufacturing costs. It also uses space efficiently and does not cause the connection section 76 to be excessively large.
- FIG 11 is an enlarged, simplified top view of a connection section 86 in accordance with an eighth embodiment, which can be incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- the connection section 86 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 , when the connection section 86 is incorporated in the motor 1 of Figure 1 .
- Figure 11 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the eighth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in the connection section 86.
- connection section 86 includes the terminal block 7 and a plurality of metal terminals 88 (only two shown).
- the terminal block 7 is made of an insulating material.
- the metal terminals 88 are fastened to the terminal block 7 with the fastening members (not shown).
- the terminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while the metal terminals 88 serve as the conductive parts.
- the metal terminals 88 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that the metal terminals 88 are separated by substantially equal intervals.
- the electrical component structure according to the eighth embodiment is basically the same as the seventh embodiment, except that the coils 81 of the electromagnets 80 are wound onto the metal terminals 88 (which are coated in advance with soft magnetic coatings 69) at different positions than in the seventh embodiment.
- the coils 81 of the electromagnets 80 are wound onto end portions 88e of the metal terminals 88 that protrude from the terminal block 7.
- the connecting section 86 comprises a terminal block 7 and the metal terminals 88.
- a length dimension L6 of the metal terminals 88 is longer than an external dimension L5 of the terminal block 7, and the metal terminals 88 are affixed to the terminal block so as to be parallel to each other with a prescribed spacing in-between.
- the coils 81 of the eighth embodiment are electrically connected to the metal terminals 88 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from the metal terminals 88.
- the coils 81 are wound such that when they are energized, magnetic forces are generated in the same magnetization direction 82, which is a lengthwise direction of the metal terminals 88.
- the oppositely oriented arrows shown in parentheses indicate the magnetization directions 82 that would result if the electric current flowed in the opposite direction in the coils 81.
- an electrical component structure according to the eighth embodiment is contrived such that the metal terminals 88 protrude from the terminal block 7 and the coils 81 of the electromagnets 80 are wound near end portions 88e where the metal terminals 88 protrude beyond the terminal block 7. Magnetic forces are generated in the magnetization directions 82 shown in Figure 11 when the coils 81 are energized.
- the metal terminals 88 are readily magnetized and magnetic flux lines 84 are generated between the metal terminals 88 in such directions as to obstruct the electric line of force 11 existing between the metal terminals 88.
- the magnetic forces serve to prevent residual metal particles existing between the metal terminals 88 from aligning with the electric line of force 11, thereby preventing a short circuit from occurring and improving the power transfer from the metal terminals to the motor.
- the soft magnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surface of the metal terminals 88 serve to enable magnetic flux lines 84 to be reliably generated between the metal terminals 88 in directions oriented to intersect substantially perpendicularly with the electric line of force 11 at a lengthwise middle portion between the metal terminals 88, where a static electric force is largest and metal particles are most likely to become arranged in a path and cause a short circuit.
- connection section 86 an insulating performance of the connection section 86 can be improved and, since the coils 81 are wound near protruding end portions 88e such that the electromagnets 80 do not exist on the terminal block 7, it is not necessary to secure a mounting space for the electromagnets and the degree of freedom with respect to layout is increased.
- the electrical component structures of the illustrated embodiments are used with the motor 1, the electrical component structures are not limited to such an application.
- the electrical component structures of the illustrated embodiments can be applied to any electrical component having at least two conductive parts held onto an insulator so long as a magnetic flux generating structure can be used to generate a magnetic flux between adjacent conductive parts and the magnetic flux lines being oriented in such a direction as to intersect or to intersect perpendicularly with the electric line of force existing between the conductive parts and to obstruct the electric line of force.
- the first embodiment presents the idea of the magnetized insulating member 13 embedded in the terminal block 7.
- the second embodiment presents the idea of mixing a plurality of magnetized particles into the insulation material forming the terminal block 17 in advance.
- the third embodiment presents the idea of the magnet 31 embedded into the terminal block 7.
- the fourth embodiment presents the idea of magnetizing the metal terminals 48 and 48 themselves.
- the fifth embodiment presents the idea of attaching elongated plate-like permanent magnets 57 to 60 to opposing side faces 8b and 8c of adjacent metal terminals 8 such that opposing side faces 8b and 8c have the same magnetic polarity.
- the sixth embodiment presents the idea of applying a soft magnetic coating 69 to substantially the entire surface of each of the metal terminals 68 and attaching the permanent magnet 70 to the upper surface portion 68d located in a lengthwise middle portion of each of the metal terminals 68.
- the seventh and eighth embodiments present the idea of attaching the electromagnet 80 to different portions of the metal terminals 68 instead of the permanent magnet 70.
- the present invention is not limited to these configurations. For example, it is acceptable to attach a plurality of permanent magnets or electromagnets to a single metal terminal. It is acceptable to embed magnetic bodies in all or only a portion of the terminal block 7. It is also acceptable to combine one or a plurality of permanent magnets and electromagnets.
- any kind of magnetic flux generating structure is acceptable so long as it generates magnetic flux lines between adjacent conductive parts (e.g., metal terminals 8) such that the electric line of force existing between adjacent conductive parts is obstructed.
- the present invention is not limited to surface treatment.
- the metal terminals 68 it is acceptable for the metal terminals 68 to be made of a substance that is easily magnetized. It is also acceptable for the soft magnetic coating 69 to be applied to only a portion of the metal terminal 68 or for another surface treatment other than the soft magnetic coating 69 to be applied to the entire surface or a portion of the surface of the metal terminal 68. It is also acceptable to not to apply the soft magnetic coating 69 or any other surface treatment at all.
- electromagnets 80 are electrically connected to the metal terminals 68 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from the metal terminals 68.
- the invention is not limited to such an arrangement and it is obviously acceptable to use an external power supply to provide electric power for generating magnetic flux.
Description
- The present invention generally relates to an electrical component structure. More specifically, the present invention relates to an electrical component structure having an excellent insulating performance.
- Technology has been proposed that uses magnets to improve the ability of an oil filter to remove metal particles from a cooling oil or lubricating oil. For example, such technology has been proposed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No.
2001-200988 -
US 4 966 559 A discloses a hermetic terminal block for a compressor, the terminal assembly comprises a metallic, cup-shaped body member having an annular frustoconical flange with tend to collect foreign particles. -
EP 1 920 992 A1claim 1. - It has been discovered with a conventional structure, such as the one mentioned above, using magnets to collect metal particles, only metal particles passing nearby the magnets are collected. This often results in most of the metal particles not be collected. Also when oil containing metal particles circulates around conductive parts (e.g., exposed terminals), the metal particles can cause short circuits between the conductive parts, and thus degrade the insulating performance of the oil.
- In view of the state of the known technology, one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an electrical component structure that can prevent a short circuit caused by metal particles from occurring between terminals of an electrical component and improve an insulating capacity of the electrical component.
- In order to achieve the aforementioned object, an electrical component according to the one aspect is provided that mainly comprises at least two electrical conductive parts, an insulator and a magnetic flux generating structure. The electrical conductive parts are arranged with an electric line of force existing between adjacent ones of the conductive parts. The insulator holds the conductive parts. The magnetic flux generating structure generates a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines oriented in a direction different from a direction of the electric line of force existing between the adjacent ones of the conductive parts.
- Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure:
-
Figure 1 is a cross sectional view of a motor as seen along a section that is perpendicular to a rotary shaft of the motor, with the motor incorporating an electrical component structure in accordance with illustrated embodiments; -
Figure 2 is an enlarged, simplified top view of the an electrical component structure of the motor, with an electrical component structure including a connection section with a terminal block and three terminals; -
Figure 3 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with a first embodiment; -
Figure 4 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with a second embodiment; -
Figure 5 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with a third embodiment; -
Figure 6 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with a fourth embodiment. -
Figure 7 is an enlarged, simplified top view of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with a fifth embodiment; -
Figure 8 is an enlarged simple plan view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure according to the fifth embodiment; -
Figure 9 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with to a sixth embodiment; -
Figure 10 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with a seventh embodiment; and -
Figure 11 is an enlarged, simplified top view of two of the terminals of the electrical component structure illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , with the electrical component structure being configured in accordance with an eighth embodiment. - Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
- Referring initially to
Figure 1 , amotor 1 is illustrated in cross section. Themotor 1 is one example of an electrical device with an electrical component structure in accordance with illustrated embodiments, discussed below. Themotor 1 mainly includes a generallycylindrical motor case 2, arotor member 3 and astator member 4. Therotor member 3 and thestator member 4 are enclosed inside themotor case 2. Themotor 1 haswindings 5 that are wound onto thestator member 4 for providing three phases (phases U, V, and W). Thewindings 5 extend from thestator member 4 to a connection section 6. Themotor case 2 includes a protruding portion 2a for accommodating the connection section 6. Aterminal block 7 is arranged inside a protruding portion 2a of themotor case 2. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator of the connection section 6. Thewindings 5 are connected to separate metal terminals 8 (exemplifying conductive parts) that are provided on theterminal block 7. The connection section 6 ofFigure 2 generically represents the connection sections (Figures 3 to 11 ) that utilizes at least one magnetic flux generating structure (Figures 3 to 11 ) to prevent a short circuit from occurring between the metal terminals 8and to improve the insulating performance of theterminal block 7 between themetal terminals 8. - As shown in
Figure 2 , themetal terminals 8 are arranged on theterminal block 7 such that the long sides of themetal terminals 8 are substantially parallel to one another. Themetal terminals 8 are further arranged on theterminal block 7 such that themetal terminals 8 are separated by equal intervals or substantially equal intervals. Each of themetal terminals 8 is fastened in place with a pair offastening members 10. - As shown in
Figure 1 , arotary shaft 9 is provided in a radially center portion of therotor member 3 of themotor 1. Therotary shaft 9 is rotatably supported on bearings (not shown) that are disposed between themotor case 2 and therotary shaft 9. The bearings enable therotor member 3 to rotate smoothly together with therotary shaft 9 by reducing rotary friction. It is known that, during rotation, the metal of the bearings wears and metal particles are produced. These metal particles can adhere to a surface of theterminal block 7. - In the illustrated embodiment of
Figure 2 , the metal particles produced from the wear of the bearings intend to adhere to a surface of theterminal block 7 such that they become arranged in a linear form corresponding to an electric line offorce 11 existing between adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8 within an electric field existing between themetal terminals 8. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the electric line offorce 11 runs from oneterminal 8 to theother terminal 8. The electric line offorce 11 is shown by the arrows extending between the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. The arrows shown in parentheses indicate a current flow direction of the electric lines offorce 11 that would occur if the electric current flow is in the opposite direction. In any event, the metal particles produced from the wear of the bearings become aligned so as to be parallel to the electric line offorce 11 existing between the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8 within an electric field existing between themetal terminals 8. - In this
motor 1 ofFigure 1 , the magnetic flux generating structure is provided, as explained in detail inFigures 3 to 11 , such that a magnetic flux is generated with magnetic field orflux lines 12 that are oriented in a direction different from a direction of the electric line offorce 11 existing between the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. InFigure 2 , themagnetic flux lines 12 are provided between the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8, with themagnetic flux lines 12 being represented by unfilled arrows. As indicated inFigure 2 , themagnetic flux lines 12 are oriented so as to intersect with the electric lines offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8. The magnetic field of the magnetic flux serves to cancel out the electric lines offorce 11. Thus, in themotor 1 according to this illustrated embodiment, since the magnetic forces of themagnetic flux lines 12 are oriented in a direction different from the direction of the electric lines offorce 11 between the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8, the electric lines offorce 11 betweenadjacent metal terminals 8 are cancelled out. - Consequently, metal particles existing between the
metal terminals 8 are obstructed from becoming aligned with the electric lines offorce 11. As a result, the metal particles are obstructed from forming a path joiningadjacent metal terminals 8 and short circuits do not readily occur between themetal terminals 8. - The magnetic forces of the
magnetic flux lines 12 act on the metal particles between themetal terminals 8 in a direction different from, i.e., approximately perpendicular to, a direction in which the electric lines offorce 11 are oriented. Thus, the magnetic forces impede the ability of the metal particles to align with the electric lines offorce 11 between themetal terminals 8. As a result, a short circuit is prevented from occurring between themetal terminals 8 and the insulating performance of theterminal block 7 between themetal terminals 8 can be improved. - Additionally, in this disclosure, the expression "in a direction different from a direction in which the electric lines of
force 11 are oriented" means that the magnetic forces of themagnetic flux lines 12 can exert a sufficient effect against the metal particles even if they are not oriented exactly perpendicularly with respect to the direction of the lines offorce 11. A sufficient effect can be obtained so long as the direction of themagnetic flux lines 12 is approximately perpendicular or intersects at a prescribed angle (e.g., 80 degrees). In other words, the phrase "approximately perpendicular" refers to an angle (e.g., 80 degrees) that is sufficient to cancel the electric lines offorce 11 between the adjacent ones themetal terminals 8 to prevent a short circuit from occurring due to metal particles aligning to form a connection between adjacent ones themetal terminals 8. Thus, the magnetic force does not need to be perfectly perpendicular the electric line offorce 11. -
Figure 3 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 16 that represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with a first embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the connection section 6 will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 16. - In the
motor 1 according to the first embodiment, theconnection section 16 includes theterminal block 7 and the metal terminals 8 (only two shown). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 8 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals. A magnetized insulatingmember 13 is located between adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. The magnetized insulatingmember 13 constitutes of an example a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment. The magnetized insulatingmember 13 can be disposed either in a recess formed in theterminal block 7, or one of the surfaces of theterminal block 7. The insulating material of theterminal block 7 can be mold around part of magnetized insulatingmember 13 or completely around the magnetized insulatingmember 13 as need and/or desired. - As shown in
Figure 3 , the insulatingmember 13 of the first embodiment is configured to have a rectangular shape. Likewise, themetal terminals 8 have rectangular shapes with a length dimension L1. A length dimension L2 of the insulatingmember 13 is longer than the length dimension L1 of themetal terminals 8. The insulatingmember 13 is arranged to be parallel to themetal terminals 8. - The insulating
member 13 is pre-magnetized to generate amagnetic flux 12 between themetal terminals 8 as indicated by the unfilled arrow inFigure 3 . Themagnetic flux lines 12 are oriented to intersect with an electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8. Thus, due to the insulatingmember 13, theconnection section 16 is constructed such that themagnetic flux lines 12 are generated between themetal terminals 8 with themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented to intersect with the electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the first embodiment will now be explained.
- The
metal terminals 8 are typically high power conductive parts and metal particles can end up on a surface between themetal terminals 8 by simply landing there or being carried there by a lubricating oil. Once there, the metal particles are drawn toward a static electric force of an electric field generated by the electric line offorce 11. Thus, there is a possibility that the metal particles will move and become arranged along a path corresponding to the electric line offorce 11. - If the static electric force of the electric field causes metal particles gather to such a degree that a continuous path of metal particles capable of conducting a current is formed between the
metal terminals 8 or to such a degree that the particles are close enough together for electrical discharging to occur when a discharge threshold voltage is exceeded, then a short circuit could occur between themetal terminals 8. In order to prevent such a short circuit, the metal particles are prevented from becoming arranged in accordance with the electric field by generating a magnetic flux that intersects the electric line of force between the terminals. - With the electrical component structure according to the first embodiment, an external force is exerted against the metal particles in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electric line of
force 11, thereby preventing the metal particles from aligning with the electric line offorce 11. More specifically, the magnetized insulatingmember 13 generates a magnetic flux with themagnetic flux lines 12 oriented in a direction intersecting with the electric line offorce 11, as indicated with the unfilled arrow inFigure 3 . The magnetic flux produces a magnetic force serving as the aforementioned external force. - Metal particles that adhered to a surface of the
terminal block 7 between themetal terminals 8 due to simply landing there or being carried there by a lubricating oil are subjected not only to a force oriented in the direction of the electric line offorce 11, but also to a magnetic force that is caused by the magnetic flux with themagnetic flux lines 12 oriented in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electric line offorce 11. Consequently, in themotor 1 according to the first embodiment, the metal particles do not become arranged in a linear form substantially parallel to the electric line offorce 11 spanning between themetal terminals 8. Instead, the metal particles are obstructed from aligning with the electric line offorce 11 by the magnetic flux (themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented which are oriented in a direction intersecting with the electric line of force 11) and a short circuit is prevented from occurring between themetal terminals 8. As a result, the insulating performance can be improved between themetal terminals 8 and the operational reliability of themotor 1 can be increased. - As shown in
Figure 3 , in the first embodiment, the insulatingmember 13 is embedded between themetal terminals 8 and configured such that the length dimension L2 of the insulatingmember 13 is longer than the length dimension L1 of themetal terminals 8 and bothlongitudinal end portions 13a of the insulatingmember 13 protrude beyond both longitudinal ends of themetal terminals 8 in a lengthwise direction. Consequently, themagnetic flux lines 12 exerts a magnetic force on metal particles adhered to a surface of theterminal block 7 can be reliably generated without changing an insulating material serving as a main substance from which theterminal block 7 is made. Thus, the manufacturing cost can be reduced in comparison with a design that requires changing all of the insulating material serving as the main substance from which theterminal block 7 is made. -
Figure 4 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 26 in accordance with a second embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 26 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 26 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1. Figure 2 will be used to explain details of the electrical component structure in accordance with the second embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 26. - In the second embodiment, the
connection section 26 includes aterminal block 17 and the metal terminals 8 (only two shown). Theterminal block 17 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 8 are fastened to theterminal block 17 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 17 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals. Amagnetic body 21 is formed in theterminal block 17 between adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. Themagnetic body 21 is formed of a plurality of magnetic particles that are mixed into the insulating material of theterminal block 17 in advance when forming (e.g., molding) theterminal block 17. In other words, the magnetic particles forming themagnetic body 21 are disposed within the insulating material of theterminal block 17 at areas of between adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8 during the forming process of theterminal block 17. Themagnetic body 21 constitutes an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment. Themagnetic body 21 generates a magnetic flux withmagnetic flux lines 12 oriented in a lengthwise direction of themetal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow inFigure 4 . Thus, in the second embodiment, theconnection section 26 is constructed such that the magnetic flux is generated between themetal terminals 8 with themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented to perpendicularly intersect with the electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the second embodiment will now be explained. The second embodiment achieves the same operational effects as the previously explained embodiment and the first embodiment. Additionally, in the second embodiment, residual metal particles existing between the
metal terminals 8 are dispersed by themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electric line offorce 11 that exists between the metal terminals 8 (themagnetic flux lines 12 are indicated with an unfilled arrow and the electric line offorce 11 is indicated with small arrows inFigure 4 ). As a result, the metal particles are not pulled into alignment by an electric field generated by the electric line offorce 11. - As a result, a short circuit is prevented from occurring between the
metal terminals 8, the insulating performance between themetal terminals 8 can be improved, and the operational reliability of themotor 1 can be increased. - Furthermore, with the
terminal block 17 according to the second embodiment, themagnetic body 21 is mixed into the insulating material of theterminal block 17 in advance. Themagnetic body 21 makes it easy to generate a magnetic flux with themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a lengthwise direction of themetal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow inFigure 4 . Since the magnetic particles of themagnetic body 21 are mix into the insulating material in advance, it is not necessary to provide magnetic bodies separately such that the manufacturing cost can be prevented from increasing due to an increased number of parts. - The
magnetic body 21 also makes it easy to generate a magnetic flux with themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a lengthwise direction of themetal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow inFigure 4 , even if the distance between themetal terminals 8 is small. Thus, the overall size of theterminal block 17 does not need to be increased to add themagnetic body 21 between each of the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. - Explanations of other constituent features and operational effects are omitted for brevity because they are identical or equivalent to constituent features and operational effects of the previously explained first embodiment.
-
Figure 5 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 36 in accordance with a third embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 36 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 36 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 .Figure 5 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the third embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 36. - In the third embodiment, the
connection section 36 includes theterminal block 7 and the metal terminals 8 (only two shown). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 8 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals. Amagnet 31 is embedded in theterminal block 7 between adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. Themagnet 31 constitutes an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment. - As shown in
Figure 5 , in a plan view, themagnet 31 is configured to have a rectangular shape substantially the same as the shape of themetal terminals 8. A length dimension L3 of themagnet 31 is longer than a length dimension L1 of themetal terminals 8, and themagnet 31 is arranged between themetal terminals 8 so as to be parallel to themetal terminals 8. Themagnet 31 has alengthwise magnetization direction 32. - As indicated with an arrow in
Figure 5 , themagnet 31 of the third embodiment serves to generate amagnetic flux 12 withmagnetic flux lines 12 between themetal terminals 8 and themagnetic flux lines 12 being oriented in a direction intersecting the electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8. The magnetic flux exerts a magnetic force that impedes the tendency of residual metal particles existing between themetal terminals 8 to align with the electric line offorce 11. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the third embodiment will now be explained.
- In the electrical component structure according to the third embodiment, the
magnet 31 embedded in the insulating material of theterminal block 7 generates a magnetic flux withmagnetic flux lines 12 that intersect with the electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8, as indicated with the arrow inFigure 5 . As a result, a magnetic force produced by the magnetic flux serves to prevent residual metal particles existing between themetal terminals 8 from aligning with the electric line offorce 11, thereby preventing a short circuit from occurring between themetal terminals 8. - Additionally, with the third embodiment, the magnetic flux exerting a magnetic force on metal particles adhering to the
terminal block 7 can be reliably generated by merely providing the embeddedmagnet 31 between themetal terminals 8. In other words, it is not necessary to change an insulating material serving as a main substance from which theterminal block 7 is made. As a result, the manufacturing cost can be reduced in comparison with a design that requires changing the insulating material serving as the main substance from which theterminal block 7 is made. - Explanations of other constituent features and operational effects are omitted for brevity because they are identical or equivalent to constituent features and operational effects of the previously explained embodiments.
-
Figure 6 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 46 in accordance with a fourth embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 46 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 46 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 .Figure 6 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the fourth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 46. - In the fourth embodiment, the
connection section 46 includes theterminal block 7 and the metal terminals 48 (only two shown). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 48 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 48 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 48 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 48 are separated by substantially equal intervals. - In this embodiment, the
metal terminals 48 are magnetized to create a magnetic flux withmagnetic flux lines 42 located between the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 48. In other words, themetal terminals 48 constitute an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment. Themetal terminals 48 are arranged adjacent to one another such that portions ofadjacent metal terminals 48 that face each other have the same magnetic polarity. More specifically, the correspondingportions 48a ofadjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., S and S, or N and N), and the correspondingportions 48b ofadjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., N and N, or S and S). As a result, as shown inFigure 6 , a portion where a density ofmagnetic flux lines 42 is highest, and themagnetic flux lines 42 are strongest is arranged in a lengthwise middle portion where a density of electric lines offorce 11 is also highest. Also themagnetic flux lines 42 are oriented to intersect with the electric lines of force. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the fourth embodiment will now be explained.
- In an electrical component structure according to the fourth embodiment, as shown in
Figure 6 , themetal terminals 48 are magnetized such that portions ofadjacent metal terminals 48 that face each other have the same magnetic polarity, i.e., such that the correspondingportions 48a ofadjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., S and S, or N and N) and the corresponding portions ofadjacent metal terminals 48 have the same magnetic polarity (e.g., N and N, or S and S). Consequently, themagnetic flux lines 42 generated are oriented to intersect an electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 48 at a lengthwise middle portion between themetal terminals 48 where a density of the electric lines offorce 11 is highest and a static electric force acting on metal particles is largest. As a result, metal particles existing between themetal terminals 48 are prevented from aligning with the electric line offorce 11 at a place where such alignment would otherwise occur most readily and the insulating performance of theconnection section 46 can be improved efficiently. - Explanations of other constituent features and operational effects are omitted for brevity because they are identical or equivalent to constituent features and operational effects of the previously explained embodiments.
-
Figures 7 and 8 are an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 56 in accordance with a fifth embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 56 represents the terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 56 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 .Figures 7 and 8 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the fifth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 56. - In the fifth embodiment, the
connection section 56 includes theterminal block 7 and themetal terminals 8 that correspond to the three phases (U-phase, V-phase or W-phase). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 8 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 8 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 8 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 8 are separated by substantially equal intervals.Permanent magnets 57 to 60 are attached to opposing side faces 8b and 8c of the adjacent ones of themetal terminals 8. Thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 are shaped like elongated plates and arranged such that opposing side faces 8b and 8c ofadjacent metal terminals 8 have the same magnetic polarity. Themetal terminals 8 with thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 constitute an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment. Thus, thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 serve to magnetize themetal terminals 8 inmagnetization directions 61 indicated with arrows inFigure 7 . InFigure 7 , the oppositely oriented arrows shown in parentheses indicate the magnetization directions that would result if the polarities of thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 were reversed. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the fifth embodiment will now be explained.
- In addition to the operational effects obtained with the electrical component structure according to the fourth embodiment, the electrical component structure according to the fifth embodiment is constructed such that the
metal terminals 8 are magnetized by thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 such that opposing side faces 8b and 8c ofadjacent metal terminals 8 have the same magnetic polarity (i.e., S and S, or N and N). As a result of themagnetization direction 61, the generatedmagnetic flux lines 52 intersect the electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 8 at a lengthwise middle portion between themetal terminals 8 where a density of electric lines offorce 11 is highest and a static electric force acting on metal particles is largest. Thus, the metal particles between themetal terminals 8 can be prevented from aligning with the electric line offorce 11 at a place where a short circuit would otherwise occur most readily. - Also, since opposing side faces 8b and 8c of
adjacent metal terminals 8 can be magnetized to have the same magnetic polarity by merely attaching elongated plate-likepermanent magnets 57 to 60, themagnetic flux lines 52 can be generated reliably with a simple structure and the manufacturing cost can be suppressed. - Furthermore, when
metal terminals 8 corresponding to three or more phases are arranged with substantially equal spacing in-between as shown inFigure 7 and elongated plate-likepermanent magnets 57 to 60 are attached to opposing side faces 8b and 8c ofadjacent metal terminals 8 such that the opposing side faces 8b and 8c are magnetized to have the same magnetic polarity, an arrangement efficiency of thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 can be improved by arranging thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 such that themagnetization directions 61 are the same on both side faces 8b and 8c of ametal terminal 8 that is arranged between twoother metal terminals 8. As a result, it is not necessary to increase the number ofpermanent magnets 57 to 60 or increase a magnetic field strength in order to obtain the desired insulating performance. This, too, enables the manufacturing cost to be suppressed. - As shown in
Figure 7 , in the fifth embodiment, a length dimension L4 of thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 is longer than the length dimension L1 of themetal terminals 8, and thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 are disposed on theterminal block 7 between themetal terminals 8 such that thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 are parallel to themetal terminals 8. thus, both longitudinal end portions of thepermanent magnets 57 to 60 protrude beyond bothlongitudinal ends 8a of themetal terminals 8 in a lengthwise direction. Consequently, the magnetic forces of themagnetic flux lines 52 can be made to act on metal particles adhered to a surface of theterminal block 7 in a reliable fashion. - Explanations of other constituent features and operational effects are omitted for brevity because they are identical or equivalent to constituent features and operational effects of the previously explained embodiments.
-
Figure 9 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 66 in accordance with a sixth embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 66 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 66 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 .Figure 9 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the sixth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 66. - In the sixth embodiment, the
connection section 66 includes theterminal block 7 and a plurality of metal terminals 68 (only two shown). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 68 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 68 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 68 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 68 are separated by substantially equal intervals. - The
metal terminals 68 are provided with softmagnetic coatings 69 that are formed on substantially the entire surface of themetal terminals 68. Also apermanent magnet 70 is attached to anupper surface portion 68d of each of themetal terminals 68. Theupper surface portion 68d is located in a lengthwise middle portion of each of themetal terminals 68. Each of thepermanent magnets 70 is arranged such that it magnetizes with amagnetization direction 71 oriented either into or out of theterminal block 7 as indicated with an X mark or a circle inFigure 9 . The softmagnetic coatings 69 and thepermanent magnets 70 constitute an example of a magnetic flux generating structure of this embodiment. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the sixth embodiment will now be explained.
- In addition to the operational effects obtained with the electrical component structure according to the fifth embodiment, the electrical component structure according to the sixth embodiment includes
permanent magnets 70 arranged on themetal terminals 68 such that the resultingmagnetization directions 71 are oriented vertically through themetal terminals 68. Since a softmagnetic coating 69 is applied to a surface of each of themetal terminals 68 in advance, themetal terminals 68 become magnetized readily and the generatedmagnetic flux lines 62 are oriented to intersect an electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 68 at a lengthwise middle portion between themetal terminals 68 where a density of the electric lines offorce 11 is highest and a static electric force acting on metal particles is largest. Thus, the metal particles between themetal terminals 68 can be prevented from being drawn into alignment with the electric line offorce 11 at a place where a short circuit would otherwise occur most readily. - Additionally, regardless of the positions where the
permanent magnets 70 are attached, the softmagnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surface of themetal terminals 68 serve to reliably magnetize themetal terminals 68 such that opposing side faces 68b and 68c ofadjacent metal terminals 68 have the same magnetic polarity. Thus,magnetic flux lines 62 can be generated in a desired position. As a result, by merely attaching thepermanent magnets 70 to any portion of themetal terminals 68, e.g., to anupper surface portion 68d located in a lengthwise middle portion of each of themetal terminals 68 as shown inFigure 9 ,magnetic flux lines 62 serving to prevent the alignment of metal particles can be reliably generated from portions ofadjacent metal terminals 68 facing opposite each other, i.e., from the opposing side faces 68b and 68c. Thus, the electric component structure according to the sixth embodiment can be obtained simply and easily without increasing a distance between the opposing side faces 68b and 68c of themetal terminals 68. Furthermore, the size of the electric component structure can be reduced. - Explanations of other constituent features and operational effects are omitted for brevity because they are identical or equivalent to constituent features and operational effects of the previously explained embodiments.
-
Figure 10 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 76 in accordance with a seventh embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 76 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 76 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 .Figure 10 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the seventh embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 76. - In the seventh embodiment, the
connection section 76 includes theterminal block 7 and a plurality of metal terminals 68 (only two shown). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 68 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with thefastening members 10. Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 68 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 68 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 68 are separated by substantially equal intervals. - The electrical component structure according to the seventh embodiment is basically the same as the sixth embodiment, except that the
permanent magnets 70 are replaced withelectromagnets 80 for generating the magnetic flux lines 62. Softmagnetic coatings 69 are applied in advance to surfaces of themetal terminals 68 serving as conductive parts of theconnection section 76 to magnetize themetal terminals 68. In the seventh embodiment, the softmagnetic coatings 69 are applied to substantially the entire upper surface of themetal terminals 68 and each of theelectromagnets 80 is provided over the softmagnetic coating 69 on anupper surface portion 68d located in a lengthwise middle portion of therespective metal terminal 68. Each of theelectromagnets 80 comprises acoil 81 wound around an outer peripheral surface of themetal terminal 68. - As shown in
Figure 10 , thecoils 81 can be configured such that when they are energized, the resultingmagnetization directions 82 of themetal terminals 68 are oriented in the same lengthwise direction of themetal terminals 68. InFigure 10 , the oppositely oriented arrows shown in parentheses indicate themagnetization directions 82 that would result if the electric current flowed in the opposite direction in thecoils 81. - Also, in the seventh embodiment, the
coils 81 are electrically connected to themetal terminals 68 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from themetal terminals 68. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the seventh embodiment will now be explained.
- In addition to the operational effects obtained with the previously explained embodiment and the first to sixth embodiments, the seventh embodiment is contrived such that when electric power is supplied to the
metal terminals 68 of theconnection section 76 to drive themotor 1, thecoils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are energized because they are electrically connected to themetal terminals 68. - When the
coils 81 are energized, magnetic forces are generated in the same direction with respect to each of thecoils 81, i.e., in a longitudinal direction of themetal terminals 68. Thus, themagnetization directions 82 of themetal terminals 68 are the same. - Due to the soft
magnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surfaces of themetal terminals 68, themetal terminals 68 are readily magnetized andmagnetic fluxes 83 are generated between themetal terminals 68 in such directions as to obstruct an electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 68. - The magnetic forces serve to prevent residual metal particles existing between the
metal terminals 68 from aligning with the electric line offorce 11, thereby preventing a short circuit from occurring and improving the ?power transfer through themetal terminals 68 to themotor 1. - In the seventh embodiment, the
metal terminals 68 are magnetized by theelectromagnets 80. Also, thecoils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are electrically connected to themetal terminals 68 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from themetal terminals 68. Consequently, it is not necessary to provide a separate electric power source to supply electric power to thecoils 81 and thecoils 81 need only be wound onto an outer surface of themetal terminals 68 such that an electrical connection is established. Thus, the seventh embodiment has a simple structure and can suppress manufacturing costs. It also uses space efficiently and does not cause theconnection section 76 to be excessively large. - Explanations of other constituent features and operational effects are omitted for brevity because they are identical or equivalent to constituent features and operational effects of the previously explained embodiments.
-
Figure 11 is an enlarged, simplified top view of aconnection section 86 in accordance with an eighth embodiment, which can be incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 . In other words, theconnection section 86 represents two terminals of the connection section 6 illustrated inFigures 1 and 2 , when theconnection section 86 is incorporated in themotor 1 ofFigure 1 .Figure 11 will be used to explain details of an electrical component structure in accordance with the eighth embodiment. Parts that are identical or equivalent to parts of the previously described connection sections will be indicated with the same reference numerals in theconnection section 86. - In the eighth embodiment, the
connection section 86 includes theterminal block 7 and a plurality of metal terminals 88 (only two shown). Theterminal block 7 is made of an insulating material. Themetal terminals 88 are fastened to theterminal block 7 with the fastening members (not shown). Theterminal block 7 serves as an insulator, while themetal terminals 88 serve as the conductive parts. The metal terminals 88 (only two shown) are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other such that themetal terminals 88 are separated by substantially equal intervals. - The electrical component structure according to the eighth embodiment is basically the same as the seventh embodiment, except that the
coils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are wound onto the metal terminals 88 (which are coated in advance with soft magnetic coatings 69) at different positions than in the seventh embodiment. Thecoils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are wound ontoend portions 88e of themetal terminals 88 that protrude from theterminal block 7. - In the electrical component structure according to the eighth embodiment, the connecting
section 86 comprises aterminal block 7 and themetal terminals 88. A length dimension L6 of themetal terminals 88 is longer than an external dimension L5 of theterminal block 7, and themetal terminals 88 are affixed to the terminal block so as to be parallel to each other with a prescribed spacing in-between. - Similarly to the seventh embodiment, the
coils 81 of the eighth embodiment are electrically connected to themetal terminals 88 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from themetal terminals 88. Thecoils 81 are wound such that when they are energized, magnetic forces are generated in thesame magnetization direction 82, which is a lengthwise direction of themetal terminals 88. InFigure 11 , the oppositely oriented arrows shown in parentheses indicate themagnetization directions 82 that would result if the electric current flowed in the opposite direction in thecoils 81. - Operational effects of an electrical component structure according to the eighth embodiment will now be explained.
- In addition to the operational effects obtained with an electrical component structure according to the previously explained embodiment and the first to seventh embodiments, an electrical component structure according to the eighth embodiment is contrived such that the
metal terminals 88 protrude from theterminal block 7 and thecoils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are wound nearend portions 88e where themetal terminals 88 protrude beyond theterminal block 7. Magnetic forces are generated in themagnetization directions 82 shown inFigure 11 when thecoils 81 are energized. - Due to the soft
magnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surfaces of themetal terminals 88, themetal terminals 88 are readily magnetized andmagnetic flux lines 84 are generated between themetal terminals 88 in such directions as to obstruct the electric line offorce 11 existing between themetal terminals 88. The magnetic forces serve to prevent residual metal particles existing between themetal terminals 88 from aligning with the electric line offorce 11, thereby preventing a short circuit from occurring and improving the power transfer from the metal terminals to the motor. - In the eighth embodiment, even though the
coils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are wound ontoend portions 88e of themetal terminals 88 that protrude from theterminal block 7, magnetic forces oriented in themagnetization directions 82 shown inFigure 11 are generated when thecoils 81 are energized and themetal terminals 88 can be easily magnetized. Thus, regardless of the positions where thecoils 81 of theelectromagnets 80 are wound, the softmagnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire upper surface of themetal terminals 88 serve to enablemagnetic flux lines 84 to be reliably generated between themetal terminals 88 in directions oriented to intersect substantially perpendicularly with the electric line offorce 11 at a lengthwise middle portion between themetal terminals 88, where a static electric force is largest and metal particles are most likely to become arranged in a path and cause a short circuit. As a result, an insulating performance of theconnection section 86 can be improved and, since thecoils 81 are wound near protrudingend portions 88e such that theelectromagnets 80 do not exist on theterminal block 7, it is not necessary to secure a mounting space for the electromagnets and the degree of freedom with respect to layout is increased. - While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them, unless otherwise indicated. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time.
- Also while the electrical component structures of the illustrated embodiments are used with the
motor 1, the electrical component structures are not limited to such an application. The electrical component structures of the illustrated embodiments can be applied to any electrical component having at least two conductive parts held onto an insulator so long as a magnetic flux generating structure can be used to generate a magnetic flux between adjacent conductive parts and the magnetic flux lines being oriented in such a direction as to intersect or to intersect perpendicularly with the electric line of force existing between the conductive parts and to obstruct the electric line of force. - Various types of magnetic flux generating structure have been presented. The first embodiment presents the idea of the magnetized insulating
member 13 embedded in theterminal block 7. The second embodiment presents the idea of mixing a plurality of magnetized particles into the insulation material forming theterminal block 17 in advance. The third embodiment presents the idea of themagnet 31 embedded into theterminal block 7. The fourth embodiment presents the idea of magnetizing themetal terminals permanent magnets 57 to 60 to opposing side faces 8b and 8c ofadjacent metal terminals 8 such that opposing side faces 8b and 8c have the same magnetic polarity. The sixth embodiment presents the idea of applying a softmagnetic coating 69 to substantially the entire surface of each of themetal terminals 68 and attaching thepermanent magnet 70 to theupper surface portion 68d located in a lengthwise middle portion of each of themetal terminals 68. The seventh and eighth embodiments present the idea of attaching theelectromagnet 80 to different portions of themetal terminals 68 instead of thepermanent magnet 70. However, the present invention is not limited to these configurations. For example, it is acceptable to attach a plurality of permanent magnets or electromagnets to a single metal terminal. It is acceptable to embed magnetic bodies in all or only a portion of theterminal block 7. It is also acceptable to combine one or a plurality of permanent magnets and electromagnets. In short, there are no particular limitations on the shape, number, materials, or combinations of the parts constituting the magnetic flux generating structure. Basically, any kind of magnetic flux generating structure is acceptable so long as it generates magnetic flux lines between adjacent conductive parts (e.g., metal terminals 8) such that the electric line of force existing between adjacent conductive parts is obstructed. - Although the
permanent magnets 70 of the sixth embodiment and theelectromagnets 80 of the seventh and eighth embodiments are attached over the softmagnetic coatings 69 applied to substantially the entire surface of themetal terminals 68, the present invention is not limited to surface treatment. For example, it is acceptable for themetal terminals 68 to be made of a substance that is easily magnetized. It is also acceptable for the softmagnetic coating 69 to be applied to only a portion of themetal terminal 68 or for another surface treatment other than the softmagnetic coating 69 to be applied to the entire surface or a portion of the surface of themetal terminal 68. It is also acceptable to not to apply the softmagnetic coating 69 or any other surface treatment at all. - Additionally, in the seventh and eighth embodiments,
electromagnets 80 are electrically connected to themetal terminals 68 such that electric power used for generating the magnetic forces is supplied from themetal terminals 68. However, the invention is not limited to such an arrangement and it is obviously acceptable to use an external power supply to provide electric power for generating magnetic flux. - Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (13)
- An electric component structure (1) comprising:at least two electrical conductive parts (8) arranged with an electric line of force (11) existing between adjacent ones of the conductive parts; andan insulator (7) holding the conductive parts; characterized bya magnetic flux generating structure (13) that generates a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines (12) oriented in a direction different from a direction of the electric line of force existing between the adjacent ones of the conductive parts.
- The electrical component structure according to claim 1, wherein
the magnetic flux generating structure (13) is located between the adjacent ones of the conductive parts (8). - The electrical component structure to claims 1 or 2, wherein
the magnetic flux generating structure (13) generates the magnetic flux with the magnetic flux lines perpendicularly intersecting the electric line of force. - The electrical component structure to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein
the magnetic flux generating structure (13) includes a magnetized insulating member to generate the magnetic flux. - The electrical component structure any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein
the magnetic flux generating structure (13) includes a plurality of magnetic particles forming a magnetic body (21) molded within an insulating material of the insulator. - The electrical component structure to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein
the magnetic flux generating structure (13) includes a magnet (31) embedded in an insulating material of the insulator. - The electrical component structure according to claim 1, wherein portions of the adjacent ones of the conductive parts (8) that face each other are magnetized with the same magnetic polarity to form the magnetic flux generating structure.
- The electrical component structure according to claim 7, wherein
the conductive parts are magnetized with permanent magnets (57, 58, 59, 60). - The electrical component structure according to claim 8, wherein the permanent magnets (57, 58, 59, 60) are attached to the adjacent ones of the conductive parts that face each other.
- The electrical component structure according to claim 8 or 9, wherein
the permanent magnets are attached to a soft magnetic coating (69) of the conductive parts. - The electrical component structure according to claim 7, wherein
the conductive parts are magnetized using electromagnets (80). - The electrical component structure according to claim 11, wherein
each of the electromagnets (80) includes a coil (81) wound onto one of the conductive parts, and the conductive parts have been pretreated with a soft magnetic coating (69). - The electrical component structure according to claims 11 or 12, wherein
the electromagnets (80) are electrically connected to the conductive parts and electric power for generating a magnetic force is supplied from the conductive parts.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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JP2009155427A JP5353488B2 (en) | 2009-06-30 | 2009-06-30 | Electrical component structure |
PCT/IB2010/001525 WO2011001243A1 (en) | 2009-06-30 | 2010-06-24 | Electrical component structure |
Publications (3)
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EP2449656A1 EP2449656A1 (en) | 2012-05-09 |
EP2449656A4 EP2449656A4 (en) | 2018-02-21 |
EP2449656B1 true EP2449656B1 (en) | 2018-10-17 |
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EP10793686.6A Active EP2449656B1 (en) | 2009-06-30 | 2010-06-24 | Electrical component structure |
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US (1) | US8662903B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2449656B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5353488B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN102474154B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2011001243A1 (en) |
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JP2017189021A (en) * | 2016-04-06 | 2017-10-12 | 株式会社日立産機システム | Terminal block |
JP6691072B2 (en) * | 2017-04-05 | 2020-04-28 | 矢崎総業株式会社 | connector |
JP6938648B2 (en) * | 2017-08-31 | 2021-09-22 | 三菱重工エンジン&ターボチャージャ株式会社 | Foreign matter removing device and turbocharger equipped with this foreign matter removing device |
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JP5353488B2 (en) | 2013-11-27 |
CN102474154A (en) | 2012-05-23 |
EP2449656A4 (en) | 2018-02-21 |
JP2011015488A (en) | 2011-01-20 |
US20120045907A1 (en) | 2012-02-23 |
CN102474154B (en) | 2014-02-12 |
EP2449656A1 (en) | 2012-05-09 |
WO2011001243A1 (en) | 2011-01-06 |
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